Sara Cox on Drivetime: BBC Radio 2 presenter thanks fans for support after landing 'dream job'

Sara Cox has thanked fans for their support after landing her “dream job” presenting BBC Radio 2 Drivetime.

Cox will take over the 5-7pm slot from Simon Mayo, who is leaving the station, and Jon Whiley – who will front a new show – from January.

Sharing the social media statements on her own page, Cox wrote: “*forward roly-poly into double fist-pump*.

“Can’t wait to start my dream job. I solemnly promise to play you brilliant music and make you lol-a-lot.

“Lordy. So many lovely messages. Thank you! *cartwheels down the stairs to feed the dogs*.”

Cox, who currently anchors the 10pm-midnight show Monday through Thursday, was announced as the new Drivetime host on Monday.

In a statement, Cox said: “I’ve been proud to be part of the Radio 2 family for a few years now and the opportunity to present such a big show as Drivetime - playing fantastic music and hopefully making people smile as they cook tea or head home after a day’s graft - is the icing on what is already a very brilliant cake.”

The Bolton-born host added that she was “beyond chuffed” with her new role, which comes just weeks after she missed out on landing the Breakfast presenter role.

Cox, 43, had been favourite to take over from Chris Evans after he announced he was leaving Radio 2 to go back to Virgin Radio .

However, It Takes Two host Zoe Ball was later unveiled as Evans’ successor with Cox sending a series of cryptic tweets following the announcement.

The new Radio 2 schedule including Cox and Ball's new roles will kick in in the New Year.